Yamaha Adds Two New Wood Finishes to its Popular b2 and b3 Upright Piano Family

ANAHEIM (January 23, 2014)— Yamaha today announced that two of its highly-acclaimed b Series Upright Pianos, the b2 and b3, will be made available in two new finishes: American walnut and polished mahogany. These instruments, which will be available this month, are designed to complement traditionally oriented décor and appeal to buyers who desire wood tone over black finishes.

Yamaha b Series models are the company's most affordable acoustic pianos and have been recognized by consumers for offering maximum performance, exceptional craftsmanship and space-conscious design. All current b Series models, including the b1, b2 and b3, will also remain available in black casings as well.

"The decision to add the new wood finishes is a direct result of the enthusiastic reception of the series among consumers and the popular demand for color options to suit more home design environments," said Ed Bezursik, marketing manager, Acoustic Pianos, Yamaha Corporation of America. "Our research shows that many consumers prefer pianos with wood over black casing. We expect these attractive new finish options, available exclusively through authorized Yamaha dealers, will be very appealing to our customers."

The Yamaha b2 and b3 pianos were introduced shortly after the U.S. debut of the b1 Continental, a favorite in Japanese and European households for years. Hailed for meeting the market demand for affordable pianos with authentic touch and tone, these models incorporate exceptional sound quality, superior materials and style that make them attractive to novices and experienced pianists alike. They are available in both traditional acoustic and "Silent" models.

Ideal for small spaces, the b2 measures 45" high, with a width of 58 ¼'' and a depth of 21 ¼''. The b3 model is a full 48" high upright, with a width of 59 ¼'' and a depth of 24 ¼''.

Seasoned specifically for the U.S. market, the b2 and b3 feature a solid Spruce soundboard with a reinforced crown that ensures that the tone quality will remain consistent for years.

Yamaha's patented Extruded Aluminum Alloy Action Rail eliminates the common fluctuations in wood and metal encased rails that affect touch, thus allowing for a more stable, long-lasting action regulation. Yamaha only uses select spruce for the keys on b Series models. Like all Yamaha pianos, the b Series offers Uniform Key Travel to ensure that regardless of size, type or model, Yamaha keyboards will always feel the same. The b Series also offers a Balanced Action with each key individually weighted to allow them to play uniformly.

Pricing and Availability
Yamaha b2 (MSRP: $6,349) and b3 (MSRP: $8,249) pianos with the new American walnut and polished mahogany finishes will ship this month.

For more information about the Yamaha b Series pianos, visit the Yamaha booth at the 2014 NAMM Show in the Anaheim Marriott Hotel, Marquis Ballroom, running January 23-26, or visit http://4wrd.it/YAMAHABSERIES.